Shubman Gill ruled out of remainder of first Test against South Africa due to neck injury

Shubman Gill ruled out of remainder of first Test against South Africa due to neck injury

India vs South Africa 1st Test: Gill had suffered a neck injury while batting on the second day of the first Test and was retired hurt on 4 not out.

Gill was stretchered into an ambulance to be admitted to a hospital in Kolkata on Saturday (November 15, 2025) evening with his neck immobilised, hours after retiring hurt in India’s first innings. The BCCI gave the update before the start of day three, confirming that he will not be available to bat in the second innings on a pitch with uneven bounce.

“Captain Shubman Gill had a neck injury on Day 2 of the ongoing Test against South Africa in Kolkata. He was taken to the hospital for examination after the end of the day's play,” the team management said in a statement.

The match situation shifts: his absence weakens India's batting depth and leadership on the field. For the series ahead, his fitness will be a key factor. If he remains unavailable, India will need to assess replacements and reshuffle roles. The medical staff will likely adopt a cautious approach to his recovery, rather than rush him back. The nature of neck injuries demands prudence.

Vice-captain Rishabh Pant, who led India during Gill's absence on Saturday, would continue to lead the team for the remaining match.